Food…It’s in our blood

In honor of Women’s History Month, FoodtoEat is proud to highlight some of our women owned & run vendors, who have built businesses that are an integral part of their communities.

Interview with Vicki from Mamagyro:

How’d you get into the restaurant business? Was your initial plan to own a food business? If not, what was your initial desire?

My parents have been in the food business for 30+ years. It’s in our blood.

Six years ago, my mom looked around and didn’t really see anyone doing justice to Greek food and the gyro. She started the restaurant back then, and we haven’t looked back since. Now, we finally see Greek food becoming more popular here in NYC, but we still want to make it a staple in the food world here.

Who is the mastermind behind your recipes?

Stella. My mother. Everything is her creation.

How has being a woman owner of a food business impacted the way you run your shop?

Honestly I don’t feel any differently than if I were a man. I think people have the same level of respect because they know my mother’s expertise and understand her passion. They know she’s dedicated her life to food.

Who or what was your inspiration for your decision in running your own business?

My mother.

What are some of the challenges you have had to overcome, if any?

Find the right staff is always the hard part. As the business owners, my mom and I know we have our images and reputations at stake to really showcase why we started a gyro restaurant in the first place. At the end of the day, the staff goes home, but we need to make them believe as much as we do in what we’re doing. That’s the way we can be successful and hopefully open more restaurants.

What advice would you give to women who are afraid or hesitant to start their own business?

Don’t be afraid. Being a woman doesn’t mean you can’t accomplish as much as a man. People respect passion and dedication. Don’t be afraid to show that – it’ll only take your further towards your goals.